Grow Q&A: How Closely Should I Trim My Marijuana Buds?

Dear Dan,
If you’re producing a highly resinous strain and aren’t concerned about the “marketability” of the final product, is there a downside to not trimming off the leaf matter closest to the colas? Seems like a waste of really good trichomes. — Polecat

Dear Polecat,

I understand the temptation to keep the “sugar” leaves on the plant. Some argue that leaving the leaves on protects the buds. In my opinion, however, the less leaf the better. If you keep your bud stored in airtight jars in a cool dark place, they shouldn’t suffer any damage that needs protecting from.

Any extra leaf, even those covered in trichomes, will make the joint, bong-hit or vapor puff you take more harsh and tarnish the flavor and experience of smoking your own homegrown stash. You can always easily make hashish or edibles from the leaves you trim off for a tasty concentrated treat. Take off the big fan leaves first and then the sugar leaves. Keep them separated; cook with the fan leaves and turn the closer trim into hash using a screen or some ice-water extraction bags and a press.